In a recent video interview with Applied Clinical Trials, Matt Robinson, PhD, senior director, oncology research program, National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), discussed the current state and challenges of cancer patient participation in clinical trials. Barriers to participation can include lack of understanding, economic burdens, and implicit biases. Robinson highlighted solutions such as increased education, legislation like the Clinical Trials Modernization Act, and engaging patients early in trial design. He also touched on the use of technology, such as biomarker testing and wearable devices, which can also enhance recruitment and reduce burdens.
ACT: How do you envision the role of clinical operations evolving to meet the challenges of cancer trial enrollment in the next five years?
Robinson: I think we’ve discussed a number of different areas in which clinical operations can work or evolve to meet these challenges. I think recognition or incorporation of the patient voice is going to be important. As I said, companies are already starting to do that, ensuring measurements are meaningful to patients, getting patients perspectives on what they’re willing to put up with. I think increased participation by navigators and multi-disciplinary teams is going to be important. As I’ve said, trials are complex, even having clinicians and scientists keep up with the changing landscape is difficult. Expecting patients to be able to do that, I don’t think is fair. Having teams that are able to help them navigate that complex system is going to be really important, and then continued education through plain language resources is also a way that I think we’re going to evolve.